CHAPTER 1. MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS
There are several different types of memories,
some of which are fleeting, and others that last
a lifetime.
The shortest type of memory is known as working
memory, which can last just seconds. This is what
we use to hold information in our head while we
engage in other cognitive processes. An example is
remembering the numbers a new friend recites as you
navigate your phone’s menu system to add a contact.
A person’s working memory capability is one of the
best predictors of general intelligence, as measured
by standard psychological tests.
What we typically think of as memory is explicit
memory. This can be divided into episodic memories,
which are events that have happened in your life,
and semantic memories, which are retained facts or
general knowledge.
The other type of long-term memory is
unconscious, or implicit. These are memories you
can’t consciously bring to mind, but which shape your
behaviour. The most common type of implicit memory
is procedural: this is concerned with how actions are
performed, like how to ride a bike or play guitar.
SO MANY MEMORIES
While working memory is short-term,
MOST other categories of memory
are LONG-TERM .